3 Reasons Your Dog Should Wear Winter Boots

Dog lovers and paw-parents can’t deny that dressing up their pooch in fresh kicks looks adorable. But aside from earning “aww’s” and double-tapped hearts on Instagram, the right dog shoes also provide function over fashion. Dog boots, in particular, are becoming necessary apparel for your fur babies, especially for certain breeds and weather conditions.

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Chihuahuas, for instance, are especially vulnerable to extreme temperature changes like summer or winter. Stepping out for a short walk in the great outdoors can burn their delicate paws, which would only cause more harm compared to the initial discomfort of training them to wear boots. 

With that in mind, the list below should clue you in on why protecting your furry friend’s paws with boots or paw protectors is important.

1. Paws Are Shielded From Snow & Ice

Just like people, dogs have sensitive footpads that can get freeze burns when walking barefoot along icy streets. Sidewalk salt, which is made from a combination of calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and other deicing agents, can also be especially rough on your pooch’s sensitive paws. 

Even just a quick sprint along the salt-ridden sidewalk can irritate your dog’s feet and lead to painful dry spots. Not to mention, licking away the residue from their paws can also be harmful to their health. That's why buying dog paw protectors like winter boots is so important, and are a must-have winter accessory.

REFLECTIVE RUBBER DOG BOOTS

2. Paws Are Kept Snug and Warm 

A snowy day may look like a winter wonderland for you, but it can be a painful experience for your furry companions. Just imagine if you had to walk barefoot through knee deep snow! Frost and snow can stick to their paw pads and hair potentially leading to your dog suffering from frostbite without you even noticing. Frostbite could cause cracked skin and lead to an infection. 

In that regard, gearing them up with a good pair of boots once the cold season hits should keep their soft pads snug and warm, especially when paired with winter apparel like a dog jacket or sweater. 

3. Reduce the Risks of Slipping and Sliding 

Your dog may get excited to explore a snowy landscape, but all the ice can make everyday walks difficult for you and your pooch as they can easily slip and slide out of control. Not to mention, icy surfaces can also develop sharp areas that could puncture your dog’s paw pads. 

That’s why adding boots with a grippy rubber sole can help make walking easier as it provides much-needed traction for your overzealous pup.

REFLECTIVE RUBBER DOG BOOTS

Wrapping Up

Winter dog boots are a must have item for your dogs protection. Beyond being a fashion statement, letting your dog wear winter boots will protect them from freezer burns, sidewalk salts, and provide support by improving their traction as they play through the snow. Though it may take some time for your dog to become used to the idea of wearing boots, the training process can be just as fun as the winter adventures that await! 

There you have it, 3 Reasons Your Dog Should Wear Winter Boots. If you have some further suggestions or ideas, let us know in the comments below!

Barket is Australia's favourite online provider of dog boots & paw protectors, shop now!